Once considered the capital of the entire western world, Rome is still a thriving and passionate city, a vital center of business and enterprise, and a rich trove of culture, art, and archeological treasures. The simple sights will stay with you, old men arguing on a bocce court, a woman in stilettos buzzing by on a Vespa, sparrows quarrelling over crumbs in the Trastavere, or nuns strolling across the Piazza Santa Maria past artists displaying their work.

The best way to experience Rome is stay here for a while. Rent a villa in the nearby countryside with views of endless vineyards, or find a vacation rental with a piazza where you can enjoy a glass of wine with your love as the sun goes down. Even if your schedule won't allow you to stay for more than a weekend, you can still find a bit of luxury that can make this beautiful region of Italy feel like home.

Here are a few additional suggestions of things to do in Rome:

• Take a cooking class: There are many fine restaurants in the city where you can experience the unforgettable cuisine of Rome. Spend an afternoon in a cooking class and learn how to bring some of these flavors home with you.
• St Peter's Basilica: Originally built by Constantine in the fourth century, St. Peter's Basilica is now considered one of the world's great works of artistic and architectural genius. Its breathtaking dome draws more than 15,000 visitors a day.
• The Coliseum: A relic of Rome's ancient history, this structure was once an enormous stadium where gladiators fought to the death and wild animals were turned loose on prisoners for the entertainment of bloodthirsty citizens.
• The Pantheon: The Pantheon is a 2000 year old temple to ancient Roman deities that is now one of Rome's most iconic sites.
• The Trevi Fountain: This is Rome's largest public fountain, designed in 1732 and featuring a baroque chariot pulled by seahorses and driven by Neptune, the god of the sea.
• The Vatican Museum: Actually a complex rather than a single museum, the Vatican collection contains religious treasures from all over the world.

Traveling in and around Rome is easy. The public transportation system is efficient and affordable, and it's also simple enough to rent a car if you dare to brave the traffic. Train trips and day trips north and south of the city can take you to surrounding sites like the famous abandoned city of Ostia Antica. And when you've absorbed all the art, culture, and history you can handle, it's easy to find an affordable apartment rental or condo where you can relax at the end of a busy day.